OPTIMIZATION OF THE EXTRACTION PROCESS OF PALM KERNEL SEED OIL USING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY

ABSTRACT

Using the response surface approach and Box Beknken Design, the optimisation of the conditions for the extraction process of palm kernel seed oil was investigated. Oil yield was examined in relation to a number of process factors, including extraction time (30-90 mins), solvent volume (50-250 ml), and particle size (200-1000 mm), using a soxhlet solvent extractor. The experiment's design dictated that a total of 17 experimental runs were conducted. It was discovered that the prediction model, which expressed the oil yield in terms of process factors, was quadratic. A 60.06% yield was the most that could be achieved for the procedure using a 60- minute extraction duration, 200mm seed particle size, and a 250ml solvent volume at a constant 60°C extraction temperature. Based on the high F-Value of the seed particle, it was discovered that the size of the seed has a significant impact on the yield of palm kernel seed oil. There was a substantial amount of oil present, which would make it very cost-effective for industrial use.